Peterborough & The Great War

Biography

James Hare was born in Norwich around 1896. He was the youngest of nine children of Fred and Charlotte Hare. His father was a carpenter.

In the 1901 census James, aged 4 was living at 131 Churchill Road, Norwich with his parents and seven siblings ranging in age from 4 years to 23 years. By 1911, the family had moved to 22 Woodhouse Street, Norwich, Charlotte had been widowed and was still living with five of her children. Before joining the Army, James was employed as a boot and shoe finisher.

Private Hare joined the Norfolk Regiment and later transferred to the 10^th Battalion Essex Regiment.  He passed through Peterborough East Station on 15 October 1916 and wrote in the visitors’ book “just a line to thank the two youngs lady’s for there great kindness toward me last night”. He was killed in action on 8 March 1917 at Ancre, Somme, just five months after passing through Peterborough. He is commemorated on the Thiepval Memorial. He was awarded the British War and Allied Victory Medals.

His mother received £2.17s 6d and a War Gratuity of £4.0s.0d in 1919.

Can you tell us more about Private Hare?  Please get in touch if you can help.